The second major redesign in 12 years for Ford’s F-150, the best selling pickup truck in American, offers more customer configurations in 2009 than any other pickup while improving horsepower and providing more interior space for driver and passengers.

There are three cab styles, four box options and seven unique trim levels (a luxury Platinum top-of-the-line was introduced this year) to match with two and four wheel drive; 4.6-liter and 5.4-liter engines, and 4- and 6-speed automatic transmissions. Factor in at least four-dozen options (not all available on all vehicles) and Ford earns bragging rights in the highly competitive pickup truck market.

The 2009 F-150 has garnered numerous awards. They include Motor Trend magazine’s Truck of the Year; Best Redesigned Vehicle and Brand Image Award for “Most Rugged Truck Brand” from Kelly Blue Book.com; Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety due to top front and side federal crash test ratings, and Playboy Magazine 2009 Best Pickup. Doug Ford, marketing manager for Ford trucks, notes Ford “has more trucks on the road with 250,000 miles than any other manufacturer.” Ford has been building F-150’s since 1975.

Design changes for 2009 include grille changes for each trim level, new jeweled headlamps wrapping to the edge of the fenders and a two-inch higher sculpted power hood. Badging and tailgate designs are also new. Our test drive was the 4X4 SuperCrew Lariat with the 157-inch wheelbase that allowed the vehicle to stretch six inches and improve rear seat space and comfort. With the larger engine, it is capable of towing five tons and adds 20 horsepower and 25 lb-ft of torque. More power, however, means less mileage. It will run on E85 (85% ethanol and 15% gasoline).

The four-wheel drive cannot be used on the highway but is excellent for low gear, off-road work or play. Our SuperCrew was equipped with Ford Sync for voice-activated Bluetooth cell phone and digital media players and a voice-activated navigation system with real-time traffic information. Inside, comfort runs high with leather-heated sets, satellite radio, power adjustable pedals and driver seat, and a faux wood/aluminum trim.

The center console can hold two lap-top computers, has ridges for file folders and complements 30 storage areas, including huge map pockets in all four doors and fold up rear seat cushion. The truck suspension provides typical bounce over bigger bumps and expected lean in tight turns but no worse than other pickup trucks of similar size.